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Warning Signs: Abuse and Neglect
These are the warning signs of child abuse and neglect as prescribed by the Massachusetts Department of Social Services, if you see a child with these symptoms or acting in this fashion you should contact the DSS immediately.
Signs of Physical Abuse:
- Bruises, welts, burns that cannot be sufficiently explained
- Injuries on places where children don't usually get hurt (the back, neck, back of legs, face)
- Repeated injuries
- Withdrawn, fearful or extreme behavior
Signs of Sexual Abuse:
- Difficulty walking or sitting
- Pain or itching in the genital area
- Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
- Frequent complaints of stomachaches or headaches
- Chronic depression
- Withdrawal
- Feeling threatened by physical contact
- Inappropriate sex play or premature understanding of sex
- Running away from home
Signs of Emotional Injury:
- Inability to play as most children do
- Sleep problems
- Antisocial behavior
- Behavioral extremes
- Lags in emotional and intellectual growth
Signs of Neglect:
- Chronically dirty or unbathed
- Chronic school absences
- Dress inadequate for weather
- Left alone
- Left in the care of siblings too young to baby-sit
- Often fatigued - even falling asleep in school
- Hunger
- Self destructive feelings or behavior
Injuries to Children / Boston Child Abuse Information
Case Description*
Please explain exactly what happened, trying to state
as thoroughly as possible who you believe was responsible
and why you believe that person was negligent:
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Comments / Additional Information
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